During Cabernet Sauvignon´s Day around the world, the Argentine Bulk Wine Chamber explains the importance of this varietal in exports.
On the last Thursday of August, the world celebrates the quality of the ‘king of reds’, Cabernet Sauvignon.
This variety, present in 17 wine-producing provinces in Argentina, represents 6.4% of the country’s total vineyards, with a total of 13,000 hectares cultivated, according to the latest data from the National Institute of Vitiviniculture in 2024.
It is the fourth most widely grown variety in Argentina after Malbec, Cereza and Bonarda.
The province of Mendoza has the largest amount of Cabernet Sauvignon in the country, reaching 9,988 hectares (76.8%) in 2024, followed by San Juan with 1,146 hectares (8.8%) and the rest of the provinces with 1,872 hectares (14.4%).
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most highly prized red varieties in the world.
Its role in bulk wine
In the ‘bulk wine’ category, Cabernet Sauvignon is the second most exported red variety, behind Malbec, and the third most exported variety overall.
Last year, 1 million litres of Cabernet Sauvignon were exported in bulk, accounting for 2.5% of total exports.
The most important destination countries for Cabernet Sauvignon exported in bulk are: the United Kingdom (29%), the United States (27%) and Canada (21%).
Features that make Argentine Cabernet Sauvignon unique
‘Argentine Cabernet Sauvignon is gaining more and more recognition,’ says José Bartolucci, president of the Argentine Bulk Wine Chamber.
From his experience as an exporter, he explains that Cabernet Sauvignons from Mendoza, especially those from areas such as Agrelo, Perdriel and the Uco Valley, are highly prized by international buyers for their quality.
In terms of regions, Cabernet from the Calchaquí Valleys (Salta) has a unique character, with herbal and spicy aromas that stand out at high altitudes.
What sets Argentine Cabernet apart from other is its lower level of herbaceous notes (such as the classic green pepper) and a more pronounced fruity character, thanks to the continental climate and the wide temperature range of the country’s wine-growing regions. This results in wines with ripe, sweet tannins and spectacular balance.
In bulk form, Argentine Cabernet Sauvignon is at its best, offering options ranging from affordable wines to high-end examples that compete with the best in the world. “Cabernet Sauvignon is a globally recognised grape variety and highly demanded,” he added.
